ZOE XL1 BEST (v2) vs ZOE XLT DELUXE – In-Depth Review & Comparison

If you’re looking for a compact, light and portable stroller for your toddler, you have probably come across ZOE lightweight strollers at some point. There are two models that are currently very popular: ZOE XL1 BEST v2 and ZOE XLT DELUXE.

Parents often wonder what are the differences between these two strollers as they look very similar. In fact, they differ in many ways.

Are you curious which stroller is better? Read my full review and comparison of ZOE XL1 BEST v2 and ZOE XLT DELUXE and find out which one will be the best for you and your baby.

Designed for travel, quick trips to the city and shopping mall, great for short strolls on flat surfaces

ZOE XLT DELUXE

Lightweight stroller

16 lbs

It’s so well equipped it can serve as an everyday stroller, great for running errands, as well as for longer walks to the park

Both these single strollers by ZOE are very light and easy to carryand don’t take up much space at home, which is a big plus. ZOE XLT DELUXE weighs 16 lbs so it is a lightweight stroller that you can easily lift to the car trunk or carry down the stairs. ZOE XL1 BEST v2 weighs even less – only 11 lbs and it is an example of an umbrella stroller.

Although these models are so light, they have many awesome features that full-sized strollers usually have. Thanks to these functions ZOE strollers are very convenient for both parents and kids.

ZOE XL1 BEST v2 and ZOE XLT DELUXE Review – Functions

Here I will show you the main features that you can find on both strollers: the newest version of ZOE XL1 BEST (v2) and ZOE XLT DELUXE. I will also point out the similarities and differences between these two models.

Seat

Both strollers have a bit different seats. The seat on ZOE XL1 BEST v2 is 12.5’’ wide, 9.25″ deep and 18″ long. From the bottom of the seat to the canopy there are about 26″. This seat is suitable from 3 months up to 50 lbs.

ZOE XLT DELUXE has bigger seat: 15.25″ wide, 10″ deep and 18.25″ long (with 27″ from the bottom of the seat to the canopy). However, this seat is suitable from 6 months. The weight capacity is the same – 50 lbs.

ZOE XLT DELUXE features near-flat recline (up to 175 degrees)

Another difference between those two seats is the recline angle. The backrest of XL1 BEST v2 stroller reclines to 165 degrees, while the backrest of XLT stroller reclines even further – up to 175 degrees. It’s not fully flat position therefore it’s not newborn-ready, but it’s still very deep and comfy for naps.

Keep in mind that the previous version of ZOE XL1 BEST (v1) offers smaller recline – up to 135 degrees.

ZOE XL1 BEST v2 has a bit smaller recline (up to 165 degrees)

To recline the seat (on both strollers) you need to use a strap with a buckle. In my opinion it’s doable with one hand, but much more easy and convenient to do with two hands.

There is also a vented top on each stroller – which you can use when the backrest is reclines. On colder days you can close it with a cover.

Moreover, ZOE XLT DELUXE seat has a full leg rest and footrest. The leg rest is adjustable – you can lift it all the way up so it could serve as an extension of the seat which is very useful as it provides bigger and comfy space for toddlers who like to nap on the go. You can also use the near-flat recline and flat leg rest for changing a diaper. It’s really a rare thing among stroller that weighs 16 lbs and costs less than $200!

ZOE XLT DELUXE – Leg rest and footrest

ZOE XL BEST v2 has only a short calf rest (it supports the back of the knees) and separate footrest – both are non-adjustable.

ZOE XL1 BEST v2 – Calf rest and footrest

What I really like about ZOE XLT DELUXE seat (apart from the deep recline) is the additional, removable padding, that provides better comfort and support for baby’s back and head. ZEO XL1 BEST v2 doesn’t have this additional pillow (you can buy it separately).

ZOE XLT DELUXE has additional seat padding (removable)

Canopy

Both strollers have extendable, 4-panel sunshades. Honestly, these are probably the best canopies that you can find on lightweight strollers!

ZOE XLT DELUXE has huge canopy that fully covers the baby

ZOE XLT DELUXE has more roomy canopy, however the canopy on ZOE XL1 BEST v2 goes down a bit further. Nevertheless, both hoods are really awesome and provide excellent shade from the sun. They keep the sun rays out of baby’s eyes and cover the passenger’s torso.

ZOE XL1 BEST v2 – Canopy

Both canopies are equipped with mesh peek-a-boo window that gives extra air-flow. The windows close with silent magnets which is of course awesome, because you can check on your baby at any time without disturbing his naptime.

ZOE XLT DELUXE – Mesh pee-a-boo window

No matter which stroller you choose I’m sure you’ll be really satisfied with the canopy and able to enjoy summer strolls without worrying about the sunburns.

Handlebar

The handlebars look the same on both strollers, however they have different height. ZOE XL1 BEST v2 handlebar is 40.25″, while ZOE XLT DELUXE handlebar is 39″ from the ground. Additionally, both strollers have recessed rear axle to provide more space behind the stroller for tall parents. Thanks to this feature people who are over 6ft tall don’t kick the rear axle or wheels while walking.

Comparison of handlebars: on the left you can see ZOE XL1 BEST v2 handlebar (40.25” from the ground), on the right there is ZOE XLT DELUXE handlebar (39” from the ground)

Keep in mind that these handlebars are non-adjustable therefore if you’re very short or very tall you may experience wrist fatigue after long-distance strolls.

I’ve read in some customer reviews that these strollers are easy to steer with one hand thanks to single handlebar, instead of two short handles.

Wheels

Both strollers have small, single, polymer wheels designed mainly for flat terrain. ZOE XL1 BEST v2 has 6.25″ rear wheels and 5.37″ front wheels, while ZOE XLT DELUXE has a bit bigger wheels: 7.75″ in the back and 6.5″ in front.

ZOE XL1 BEST v2 vs ZOE XLT DELUXE – Wheels comparison

Front wheels are pivoting which makes the stroller easier to steer and turn, but you can also lock them to increase stroller sturdiness (for example when you go over harsher terrain).

According to other parents who have been using these strollers, they work best on pavement and smooth surfaces, but also can handle average cracked sidewalk. However the short wheelbase and small wheels are not great for cobblestone, dirt unpaved roads or rocky terrain. ZOE XLT DELUXE has bigger wheels which can also handle short even grass.

Both strollers have front wheel suspension which absorbs shocks a little bit. The ride is not cushioned as in joggers, but still it’s quite smooth.

ZOE XLT DELUXE has built-in front wheel suspension just like ZOE XL1 BEST v2. However it has bigger wheels therefore it handles more types of terrain

The best application of ZOE lightweight strollers is: strolling on pavements, asphalt, sidewalks and indoor use (at the mall or airport).

What is noteworthy, the previous version of ZOE XL1 BEST (v1) has dual front wheel design

Brake

ZOE XL1 BEST v2 has dual action brakes so you have to press or lift two pedals to engage or disengage the brake. I’ve noticed that some parents complain about this type of brake as it’s less convenience and user-friendly. Moreover the pedals are difficult to release if you’re wearing open toe shoes.

ZOE XL1 BEST v2 has two separate brake pedals – you need to press both of them to lock the rear wheels. It’s less convenient and difficult to do in flip flops

I definitely prefer the brake on ZOE XLT DELUXE – there is a single one-touch bar. It is very easy to set and release and it’s even flip flop friendly.

ZOE XLT DELUXE has one-touch brake that is easy to use even in sandals

Storage Basket

ZOE XL1 BEST v2 has a mesh basket underneath the seat with elastic sides that make the access more easy. The storage space is not huge, but it’s decent – you can fit there baby’s backpack or a small diaper bag and a blanket. However even the bottom of the basket is made of mesh which is not very solid or stiff.

ZOE XL1 BEST v2 has smaller storage basket. The whole bin is made of mesh so it’s not very strong

ZOE XLT DELUXE has upgraded basket with more solid bottom made of the same fabric as the rest of the stroller. It’s also more durable and stiff. The back and sides of the storage basket are made of mesh and they are elastic so you could have easy access to your necessities, even when the seat is fully reclined. You can take your stuff in and out from the back and both sides.

And this basket is really BIG – it’s not often found on such a lightweight strollers. You will be able to fit there you normal-sized diaper bag and few other essentials.

ZOE XLT DELUXE has more capacious storage bin with more durable bottom

Size & Weight

This is the most noticeable difference between ZOE XL1 BEST v2 and ZOE XLT DELUXE. The former one is an umbrella type of strollers and it is not only smaller but also lighter than the latter one.

Moreover, ZOE XL1 BEST v2 weighs only 11 lbs, which is 5 lbs less than ZOE XLT DELUXE weighs! Since both strollers are so lightweight you can easily lift them to the trunk or carry up and down the stairs effortlessly.

You can buy additional Travel Backpack & Storage Bag for easier transportation and storage. It’s a very useful accessory especially for parents who travel with older kid who can walk, but sometimes likes to ride in a stroller, especially on longer distances. When the stroller is not in use you can carry it as a backpack without any problems!

You can easily carry ZOE XLT DELUXE in Backpack Travel Bag

Differences in size and weighs cause the difference in other features. Thanks to bigger, stronger and more robust frame and different center of gravity ZOE XLT DELUXE has for example deeper, near-flat recline.

It is worth to mention that ZOE XL1 BEST v1 – the older model – is even lighter. It weighs only 9 lbs, but it also has less features.

Fold

To fold these strollers you just need to pull the strap located in the middle of the seat and it will collapse. I only wish the stroller folded inwards – here the fabrics are more prone to get dirty or damage.

Below you can see how to fold ZOE XL1 BEST v2 and how small it is when closed!

Both models are space-savers – perfect choice for parents who live in a small apartment and/or drive a small car. They take up little space after folding and fit probably in every type of the car trunk.

As you can see both strollers have some advantages and disadvantages and for one parent ZOE XL1 BEST v2 would work perfectly, while for other parents ZOE XLT DELUXE would be a better choice.

My advice:

If you want to have a full-sized strollerwith all these useful features like big seat, deep recline, single-action brake, spacious basket, wheels that can handle more types of terrain and weight of a lightweight stroller – you should go for ZOE XLT DELUXE. It is well-equipped like a standard stroller, but weighs only 16 lbs, so it’s easy to carry and doesn’t take up a lot of space.

If you want to have an ultra-light and compact stroller that you could carry effortlessly and you’re ready to sacrifice some features– choose ZOE XL1 BEST v2.

What other parents think about ZOE XL1 BEST v2 and ZOE XLT DELUXE?

All lightweight strollers by ZOE have a lot of positive customer reviews on Amazon. You can check the current number of reviews and overall rating on your own, but keep in mind it refers to few different ZOE strollers (CLICK): ZOE XL1 BEST v2 and v1, ZOE XLT DELUXE and ZOE XL2 BEST v2 and v1.

I looked through the reviews of ZOE XL1 BEST v2 and ZOE XLT DELUXE and here are the advantages and disadvantages that customers mention most often.

ZOE XLT DELUXE – Fully equipped lightweight stroller

Parent love the near-flat recline, adjustable leg rest and oversized canopy on ZOE XLT DELUXE. Another assets are: smooth, one-hand steering and easy fold. Moreover this stroller is lightweight and comes with few accessories – for example cup holders. Another advantage is the additional seat pad/liner which is very cushy and supportive. Basket underneath the seat can hold tons of stuff. According to many customers this stroller is extremely high quality for such a low price.

There are also few drawbacks: the back of ZOE XLT DELUXE is a bit wide so this stroller may be harder to navigate through shopping aisles, tight corners or between tables in restaurant.

ZOE XL1 BEST v2 – Umbrella stroller for traveling parents

When it comes to ZOE XL1 BEST v2 customers love how incredibly lightweight it is and how easily it folds up and opens. It’s perfect choice for parents who often travel. Moreover the recline is sufficient for comfortable nap on the go. The canopy is another asset as it fully covers the baby and allows for undisturbed nap.

However this model has few disadvantages: the wheels are very small and the stroller is not very easy to maneuver.

Specification

ZOE XL1 BEST v2

ZOE XLT DELUXE

Stroller Type

Umbrella

Lightweight

Stroller Weight

11 lbs

16 lbs

Weight Capacity

50 lbs

50 lbs

Stroller Dimensions

40.25″ x 20.5″ x 31″ (HxWxD)

42.5″ x 24.5″ x 36.5″ (HxWxD)

Folded Dimensions

26’’ x 20.25’’ x 6.5’’

28.5″ x 24.5″ x 9.5″

Handlebar Height

40.25″

39″

Wheel Size

6.25″ rear wheels and 5.37″ front wheels

7.75″ rear wheels and 6.5″ front wheels

Colors

ZOE XLT DELUXE comes in 9 colors: Black, Eloise Plum, London Navy, Red, Yellow, Lime Green, Aqua, Noah Grey and Orange. Keep in mind that some color version may not always be available for purchase and the price may vary for different colors.

All color versions for ZOE XLT DELUXE

ZOE XL1 BEST v2 comes in the same colors, but there is one more version – Indiana Camo (it’s the last one in the picture below).

ZOE XL1 BEST v2 – All available colors

Before you decide to buy one of ZOE strollers, make sure to check which color versions are currently available and compare their prices.

Accessories

ZOE XLT DELUXE comes with a lot of accessories which is really awesome, especially considering how cheap this stroller is! It comes with Child Cup Holder and Snack Cup, Parent Cup Holder, Belly Bar with Integrated Cup Holder, Seat Pad/Pillow and Harness Pad/Covers. You can also purchase the Seat Pad, Harness Pad and DELUXE Canopy in different color if you’d like.

ZOE XLT DELUXE comes with bumper bar (and few other accessories)

Another accessories that are sold separately for ZOE XLT DELUXE are: Travel Backpack & Storage Bag, which simplifies transportation and storing the stroller and Ventilated Rain & Snow Weather Cover that keeps the baby always dry and cozy despite the weather conditions.

ZOE XL1 BEST v2 comes with less accessories. It includes only the Child Cup Holder and Snack Cup, Parent Cup Holder, Belly Bar and Harness Pad/Covers. You can also buy these pads in different colors separately, as well as the Seat Pad/Pillow and DELUXE Canopy.

ZOE XL1 BEST v2 has few accessories included as well. It comes with child cup holder and snack cup, parent cup holder and few more items for your convenience

Keep in mind

ZOE XL1 BEST v2 is a small and ultra-light umbrella stroller, not suitable for uneven terrain. ZOE XLT DELUXE is more like a full-sized stroller (quite wide in the back) with many useful features, it can handle more surfaces better, but it weighs 16 lbs which is 5 lbs more than XL1 BEST v2.

If you’re choosing between those two strollers you have to decide what’s more important for you: smaller size and weight or bigger amount of features.

Also, keep in mind that none of these two strollers can be used from birth as the recline is not fully flat and they are not compatible with infant car seats.

3 Reasons Why You Will Love ZOE XL1 BEST v2 and ZOE XLT DELUXE

1. Both strollers have very compact fold which is easy to store even in a small apartment and transport in a small car.

2. Although these strollers weigh so little, they offer nice deep recline which provides comfy and cozy place for naps.

3. It’s really great that these affordable strollers include many accessories like child and parent cup holders so you don’t have to pay extra for these items.

My rate:

Are you considering buying one of ZOE strollers? Don’t forget to check parents reviews and available discounts.

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